Hortencia Gonzalez Ontiveros (Plainview)

Hortencia Gonzalez Ontiveros, age 97, of Plainview, Texas passed at 8 p.m. on Monday, May 19, 2025, of natural causes. Funeral services will be on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Iglesia Apostolica de la Fe en Cristo Jesus at 910 Kokomo, Plainview, Texas with Rev. Martin Cardoza and Rev. Patricio Porras officiating. Interment will follow Parklawn Memorial Gardens under the care of Kornerstone Funeral Directors of Plainview.

Friends and family are invited to a visitation on Friday, May 30, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Kornerstone Chapel.

Hortencia's journey began as the firstborn of seven children to Miguel Rivera Gonzalez and Consuelo Ramos Gonzalez in El Mezquite Fresnillo, Zac., Mexico. She was united in marriage to Cecilio Monreal Ontiveros in February 1949 in Fresnillo, Zac., Mexico, a loving union that lasted 70 years.

Hortencia was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Cecilio Monreal Ontiveros, Sr. (November 2019), and her son, Cecilio Gonzalez Ontiveros, Jr. (February 2019). She was also preceded in death by her parents, Miguel Rivera Gonzalez and Consuelo Ramos Gonzalez; her sisters, Velia Ramirez, Maria Melendez, and Socorro Gonzales, and her brother, Eulalio Ramos Gonzalez.

She is survived by her son, Elizar Ontiveros of Plainview, TX, and four daughters: Gloria O. Castillo of Lubbock, TX; Anna Maria Mosqueda (Victor) of Lubbock, TX; Ruth O. Whitehead (Richard) of Amarillo, TX; and Nancy Andersen of Plainview, TX.

Her legacy of love extends to her six grandchildren: Connie Garcia (Brandon) of Lubbock, TX; Carmen Ontiveros of Lubbock, TX; Isaac Whitehead (Kate) of Manchester, MA; Andrew Whitehead (Gabrielle) of Nashville, TN; Elizabeth Ivey Andersen of Aberdeen, N.C.; and Ethan Andersen of Plainview, TX.

She was also blessed with five great-grandchildren, who survive her: Emily, Dylan, and Molly Garcia; Theodore (Theo) Whitehead; and Ashton Cecilio Paredes.

She also leaves behind a large and loving extended family in both Mexico and the U.S., notably her sisters Antoinetta Torres and Alicia Reyes, along with many nieces and nephews.

Hortencia's Life Story

Born in El Mezquite Fresnillo, Zac., Mexico, Hortencia grew up on a vibrant hacienda where her father was a cattle buyer and her mother ran a bustling local store. As the oldest of seven children, she learned responsibility early, even as she was sent to a finishing school to master social graces and exquisite handiwork like crocheting, knitting, tailoring, and painting. Upon completing her studies, she returned home to assist her mother with the store and immerse herself in the large, close-knit extended family that thrived on the ranch.

With a spirit of adventure, Hortencia made a pivotal trip to Texas with her grandmother, a journey that led her to meet her future husband, Cecilio Monreal Ontiveros. Soon afterwards, they married in February 1949 in Fresnillo, Zac., Mexico, embarking on a new chapter together as they moved to Texas to start their family. Their enduring partnership flourished for 70 years until his passing in November 2019. Their life was marked by their shared Apostolic faith and the joys of raising their six children.

Life in Texas centered around family and their dairy farm, a calling that seemed to run in their blood. Hortencia was a steadfast companion to her husband, working tirelessly alongside him. Her refined upbringing never hindered her willingness to work hard; with an independent spirit, she often blazed a trail, taking on tasks traditionally performed by men. Her passion for sewing, crocheting, and painting kept her content, and her deep love for her family and God always remained her guiding light.

Hortencia's legacy is one of unwavering love and dedication. Her family was always clothed in her beautifully handcrafted garments and nourished by meals created with profound love, always enveloped in the warmth of her affection. She leaves a lasting impression on all her children and grandchildren, instilling in them lessons of faith, perseverance, and the enduring power of a loving heart. Though she will be dearly missed, her remarkable life and spirit will continue to inspire.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Iglesia Apostolica de la Fe Cristo Jesus, Wells Fargo Bank, 205 W 5th St., Plainview, Texas 79072 or Meals on Wheels, 1402 Borger St., Plainview, Texas 79027.